The UK will join many countries across the globe which have banned disposable vapes, after Prime Minister Rishi Sunak announced incoming legislation. The percentage of children and teenagers vaping has boomed in recent years, despite it being illegal for them to be sold to under 18s.
Recent data reveals that over four million people in the UK now use vaping devices. However, several countries worldwide have imposed strict bans on vaping and those who flout the rules could face a huge fine, or even jailed.
According to research done by vape retailer Vapour Depot, popular holidays countries such as Turkey, Spain and Australia have strict vaping laws that could see holidaymakers with a vaping or e-cigarette habit in trouble. Stuart Stevenson from the vape company said: "It's important not to overlook the variations in laws from one country to another. The laws surrounding vaping are constantly changing, so travellers really need up-to-date advice before going anywhere."
Turkey
Despite being a favourite holiday destination with over three million Brits visiting last year, Turkey prohibits the sale and importation of e-cigarettes and related products. While vaping itself is not illegal, the restrictions on selling e-cigarettes and e-liquids are stringent.
Spain
In Spain, including popular holiday spots like Ibiza, Magaluf, and the Balearic islands, vaping is banned in indoor state-owned public places, public transport, parks, and certain beaches. Violators may face fines for disregarding these regulations, implemented following successful smoking bans on 115 of Spain's beaches in 2021.
Australia
Possessing or using nicotine e-liquid in Australia (unless prescribed by a doctor) could result in jail sentences of up to two years and fines of up to AU$ 45,000 (£24,000). Importing such products may lead to a hefty fine of £125,000.
Qatar
Despite a surge in tourism after the 2022 World Cup, vaping has been illegal in Qatar since 2014, with fines of up to 10,000 Riyals (£2,200) or imprisonment for up to three months for those possessing or using vapes.
Singapore
Vaping has been prohibited in Singapore since 2018, and the penalties for purchase, use, and possession of e-cigarettes include fines of up to 2,000 Singapore dollars (£1,200).
Thailand
Taking a strict stance since 2014, Thailand imposes fines of up to 30,000 baht (£676.21) or imprisonment for up to ten years on unsuspecting tourists caught vaping.
Argentina
One of the first countries to put legislation in place against vapes in 2011, Argentina prohibits the sale and promotion of e-cigarettes, enforced by the National Administration of Drugs, Foods, and Medical Devices (Anmat).
Nepal
The Tobacco Product Control and Regulatory Directive 2014 in Nepal prohibits the manufacture, importation, sale and distribution of electronic cigarettes in public places. Vaping, like smoking regular cigarettes, is not allowed on public transport, and companies are barred from promoting the products in the media.
Japan
While Japan does not completely ban vaping, the sale of e-cigarettes containing nicotine has been banned since 2010. However, e-cigarettes without nicotine are not legally regulated.
Hong Kong
Hong Kong banned the sale of electronic smoking products in April 2022 and can result in hefty fines and imprisonment, though it's still legal to possess and use them. Under the Import and Export (Amendment) Ordinance 2023, no person may import an alternative smoking product by way of parcels, cargoes, and bringing in by incoming travellers.
